Ancient Skills and Wisdom Review - No 12

Magazine Overview

This issue of ASWR (Ancient Skills and Wisdom Review), identified as No. 12 and dated approximately 1980, is edited and published by Paul Screeton. It features a mix of book reviews and articles on topics ranging from archaeology and ancient history to earth mysteries, UFOs, and occult subjects. The cover headline promotes Martin Brennan's book, "The Boyne Valley Vision."

Book Reviews

"The Boyne Valley Vision" by Martin Brennan

The review highlights Brennan's book as a significant and controversial work that challenges traditional archaeological views of Irish megalithic mounds. It discusses the history of archaeological interpretation in Ireland, from Edward Lhuyd and Colonel Vallancey to modern practices, criticizing the neglect and "treasure hunting" approach. Brennan's method of interpreting astronomical features and sun/moon alignments is presented, with an account of an experience at a Loughcrew chambered mound where symbols were illuminated by sunlight. The reviewer notes Brennan's enthusiasm and his initiation into the Shinto tradition. The book is praised for its stimulating content and originality, though a corrected edition is suggested.

"The Old Stones of Land's End" by John Michell

This review discusses Michell's book as a response to probability statisticians questioning the ley concept. It is described as a thorough and realistic assessment of stone positioning in Cornwall, supporting the idea of advanced ancient British technology and society. The review notes the book's subtitle, "An Enquiry into the Mysteries of the Megalithic Science," and its aim to provide a radical reappraisal of the society that constructed these structures. A new introduction updates events since the book's first publication.

"The Origin of Species" by Charles Darwin

This review contrasts Darwin's belief in evolution as a response to external influences with John Michell's view of creation by archetypal lifeforms. It touches on Darwin's "Simulacra" as a challenging alternative and discusses the historical context of Darwinism's popularity. The review suggests that Darwinism's initial appeal was partly due to a nostalgic aura for country pursuits and that in today's society, it remains dominant.

"Inventorum Natura" by Una Woodruff

This review praises Woodruff's 1979 work, "Inventorum Natura," subtitled "The Expedition Journal of Pliny the Elder," as a remarkable but regrettably overlooked book. It is compared favorably to Darwin's voyage, with Pliny's descriptions of creatures like the Arimaspians being presented without the perceived bias of Darwin. The book is lauded for its honest scholarship, skillful illustrations, and its exploration of sea dragons and other phenomena. The reviewer asserts the authenticity of the manuscript.

"The Red Breasted Frog"

A translated excerpt from an unnamed work, possibly "Inventorum Natura," describes a peculiar Bohemian creature, the "red breasted frog," and its metamorphosis. The reviewer uses this to question the limitations of current evolutionary theories, suggesting wonder at how such adaptations could arise.

"Dragons" by Peter Hogarth with Val Clery

This book is described as a treasure trove for dragon enthusiasts, featuring extensive lore, legends, and illustrations. The text is praised for being erudite and entertaining, covering various aspects of dragon mythology, from creation myths to their appearance in modern fiction and as UFOs. The review notes the authors' grasp of the allegorical level of dragonlore and their discussion of dragons' association with natural phenomena and their role in creation and end-of-world narratives.

"The Complete Book of Treasure Hunting" by Kate Johnson

This review approaches treasure hunting with an undogmatic interest, acknowledging both its appeal and the negative reactions it can provoke. The reviewer recounts personal experiences with metal detector enthusiasts and local museum curators, noting that an irresponsible minority has given the pursuit a bad name. The review includes a quote from John Michell criticizing modern archaeology for its "deep misconceptions" and "clumsy excavation."

"The Members of the Straight Track Clue" compiled by H.C. Harper

This slim booklet is described as merely listing the names of S.T.C. members, but the reviewer emphasizes their importance as pioneers of ley hunting, laying foundations for the study.

"Quercus Robur Variegata" by H.C. Harper

This work notes John Michell's attention to the hamlet of Whiteleaved Oak and covers the tree's lore, superstitions, boundary usage, Christmas traditions, and Alfred Watkins.

"Sacred Geometry" by Nigel Pennick

Pennick, a marine biologist and founder of the Institute for Geomantic Research, argues that geometry underlies all structures and man's expression through sacred sites. The book traces this principle from prehistoric times through various architectural eras, connecting it to earth mysteries and the cosmos.

"The World's Weirdest Cults" edited by Martin Ebon

This collection of articles is described as a warning about involvement with strange sects and beliefs, covering a variety of fanatical and outrageous behaviors. It includes studies on snake handling, self-crucifixion, and cattle mutilations, as well as discussions on Rastafarianism and cults.

"The Complete Book of Magic and Witchcraft" by Kathryn Paulsen

This primer for occultists is noted for offering advice on performing harmful magic, though the spells are considered by the reviewer to be largely ludicrous.

Articles and Features

"Gradually But Quickly It Loved Up" UFOs and the Press by Paul Screeton

This article details a UFO sighting in Hartlepool in 1974, witnessed by Helen Ferguson and her mother. The object was described as a red ball shape hovering and then disappearing. The article discusses the use of Helen Ferguson's photograph in "The Mail, Hartlepool," noting its "decorously cropped" nature and the author's justification for its use in an article about UFOs.

UFO Focus Supplement: Orthoteny

The supplement discusses "Orthoteny," a subject previously encountered, as featured in the autumn 1979 issue of "EARTHLINK." It is described as a shortened version of Jimmy Goddard's "Handbook of Leys and Orthoteny." The article also mentions other topics covered in "EARTHLINK," including the first Apollo landing claim, Australian UFOs, and contactee claims. Subscription details for "Earthlink" are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of ancient knowledge, alternative interpretations of history and archaeology, and earth mysteries. There is a clear editorial stance favoring unconventional theories and challenging mainstream scientific and archaeological dogma. The reviews often highlight the originality and stimulating nature of the works discussed, even when acknowledging controversy or potential flaws. The magazine appears to cater to a readership interested in a broad spectrum of esoteric and fringe subjects, from megalithic structures and ley lines to UFOs and occult practices.

This document comprises several issues of a magazine titled "UFO," specifically issues 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8, with dates ranging from August 1974 to January 1979. The magazine focuses on the examination of UFO phenomena, its societal impact, and the critical analysis of media coverage and related literature.

Media Coverage and Journalistic Standards

Several articles critique the way newspapers handle UFO reports. The "Nicki Debuse Syndrome" is introduced to describe the sloppiness in journalistic practices, including inconsistent naming and aging of individuals, and a general lack of thoroughness. The author laments the decline of intellectual investigative journalism, noting how the popular press often imposes a trivial and mocking attitude towards ufology. Examples are given of sensational headlines and dismissive comments from editors, such as the "UFO 'or thirsty spacemen' -- Spotted" headline and an editor's refusal to cover UFO sightings.

Book Reviews

The issues feature several in-depth reviews of books related to UFOs and the paranormal:

The Dark Gods by Tony Roberts & Geoff Gilbertson

This book is described as a complex exploration of UFOs, integrating psychic, magical, mythological, paranormal, sociological, and technological paradigms. The authors propose that the human race has been influenced by "dark forces" throughout history, including gods, elementals, and hierarchies. The review notes that the book develops ideas from John A. Keel and Jacques Vallee, and while it presents a coherent thesis, it lacks detailed statistical referencing. The reviewer finds the arguments add up to a seeming coherence but expresses a growing mistrust of conspiracy theories.

The House of Lords UFO Debate

This review discusses the transcript of a debate in the House of Lords concerning UFOs. The debate is characterized as a mixture of the absurd and the serious, with a polarization between "nuts and bolts" proponents and those favoring misidentification theories. Despite the perceived lack of depth from some participants, the debate is credited with generating significant public interest and leading to a second edition of the published transcript. The review highlights the contributions of Lord Clanearty and John Michell, who provides notes and perspective.

Gods of Aquarius by Brad Steiger

Considered Steiger's most mature UFO book, this work is aimed at the New Age interest. It discusses UFOs as "multi-dimensional mechanisms or psychic constructs." The reviewer notes Steiger's belief in a paraphysical phenomenon related to the psychological state of the observer. While acknowledging the book's exploration of personal experiences and entities, the reviewer criticizes Steiger's lack of discernment and uncritical acceptance of certain claims, such as those concerning "Bo and Peep." The book is seen as a reasonable exposition of one aspect of the UFO phenomenon, though it is cautioned that it does not evaluate all figures properly and could lead towards cultism.

Stars and Rumours of Stars by Kevin & Sue McClure

This work is presented as a historical context for the Welsh Revival of 1904-5 and its chief evangelist, Evan Roberts. It details paranormal phenomena associated with the revival, including star-like objects and lights. The review notes the internal consistency of the tales and their separation from other types of paranormal accounts. The authors conclude that there are no easy answers to the mysteries, and the work serves as a substantial reference for future research.

Other Publications Reviewed

Magonia

Described as an independent magazine devoted to the broad examination of UFO phenomena and its reaction with society. Reviews of specific issues highlight articles on scientific techniques in ufology, "The Shadowland of Ufology," and catalogues of major cases. It features hard-hitting editorials and excellent reviews.

UFO Insight

This publication by Federation UFO Research is characterized by a "nits and bolts" bias but is considered a sensible magazine. It includes interviews with J. Allen Hynek and evaluations of unexplained cases. The magazine also addresses issues of hoaxes and the publication of CEIII (Close Encounter of the Third Kind) reports.

Skywatch

An informal publication devoted to ufology and related subjects. Reviews mention articles on Cottingley photos, graphology, the Pace attack, the Amityville Horror, and international definitions of UFO phenomena. It also covers the lunar "misidentification" case and debates surrounding BUFORA.

Northern UFO News

This journal, published by the Northern UFO Network, covers various UFO topics, including TV satire, role-playing in ufology, and debates on UFOs and psychic links. It features contributions from various researchers and discusses physical evidence and experiments.

UFO Research Review

This journal from the Nottingham UFO Investigation Society takes a skeptical approach, calling for caution regarding the "paranormal." It reviews books, discusses the situation of working parties and committees, and examines the role of photography in UFO study.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout these issues include a critical examination of media sensationalism and journalistic standards in reporting UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on book reviews, providing detailed analyses of works that explore UFOs, the paranormal, and related mystical or psychological theories. The magazine also highlights the challenges and complexities of researching ufology, often contrasting different viewpoints, such as the "nuts and bolts" versus the "psychosociological" explanations for UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging thorough research and a discerning approach to the subject matter, while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding UFOs.